About a year ago I contacted folks through the PRSA Talk medium
regarding a new pilot program designed to help the elderly who,
because of physical or mental problems, are unable to care for
themselves.  Marilyn and I were the "guinea pigs" for the program
which now has about eight volunteers in addition to the one
professional.  During the last year we have been able to reach out to
about 50 elderly East Tennesseans. The number of visits to these
folks approximated 450.

The program is operated through the office of the Public Guardian, an
arm of the East Tennessee Human Resource Agency. Volunteers can
contribute as little as four hours a week, or less, serving as an
advocate for the client, arranging for medical appointments, visiting
the client in the home, boarding home or nursing home.  Obviously
time constraints are a problem for you folks who are gainfully
employed.  However, even a visit to a client is so important,
particularly when they have no one, and I mean no one, who is
interested in them.  Incidentally,  Chancery Court makes the decision
who receives the services of the program, which are free.  All
volunteers are covered by the Area Agency on Aging's comprehensive
liability insurance program and receive mileage for visits to the
clients.

During the first year of operation, the program has concentrated on
three counties--Knox, Anderson and Blount.  However, the guardian
services are provided in 16 ET counties and we  could use volunteers
who are interested in helping people who can't help themselves.

IIf you are interested in looking into the program you can contact
Carol Silvey, the District Guardian <[log in to unmask]> or Earle
King, volunteer coordinator <[log in to unmask]>.

Harvey I. Cobert, APR